When you are involved in a divorce and you have children, this process can be incredibly complicated, as you’ll need to navigate custody. However, when the dust has settled and you’ve adjusted to the new normal, the last thing you want is to go back to court to change the arrangement. As such, you may wonder if it’s possible to modify a custody arrangement without appearing in court. The following blog explores what you must know about these circumstances, including when a modification may be necessary, and the importance of discussing your situation with Long Island child custody lawyers to assist you through these matters.
Why Might I Need to Modify a Custody Arrangement in NY?
There are a number of reasons you may need to change your custody arrangement in New York. Generally, the main reason is that there has been a significant change in circumstances regarding the child’s well-being, such as one parent’s ability to provide a safe and stable home. Additionally, if one parent relocates, experiences a drastic change in their income, or passes away, the custody order must be updated to reflect these changes.
However, you’ll find that as children grow and mature, their own needs can also change, and you may wish to update the custody order to reflect that. For example, as they enter high school, your child may be interested in playing sports. However, if they visit their parent on weekends and would miss practices and games, you may want to change the schedule so your child can pursue their interests.
Can I Do This Without Going to Court?
If you want to change the current custody arrangement, it’s important to understand that the only option is to go through the courts. This is because this is the only legally binding way to ensure that the changes you and your spouse have agreed upon are enforced.
Unfortunately, many attempt to change a custody schedule without going through the court, and instead agree to the mutual changes outside of court. While this can be easy, you’ll find that if your spouse violates the new rules you’ve established, you generally have no legal standing against them as the new terms and conditions are not recognized or enforced by the court. As such, this can leave you with few legal options.
As such, if you and your spouse can agree on the changes you wish to make to the arrangement, it is imperative you go through the court to ensure these modifications are recognized.
If you’re ready to make changes to a custody arrangement, it’s imperative to connect with an experienced attorney to assist you through these difficult times. At the Sklavos Law Firm, our team understands how overwhelming these matters can be, which is why we will do everything possible to help you fight for the best possible outcome. Connect with us today to learn how we can represent you. Wge